How to Hide Online on Instagram: A Step-By-Step Guide [2025]

Instagram is a fun and engaging platform, but sometimes, you may want to enjoy it without being constantly available to everyone. Whether you’re looking for a little privacy or simply need some quiet time, hiding your online status can help. In 2025, Instagram continues to offer ways to manage how others interact with you, including hiding your “online” status. This feature allows you to browse, post, and chat without others knowing when you’re active. It’s a perfect solution for those moments when you need to scroll without being interrupted or feel like taking a break from the constant notifications.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to hide your online status on Instagram. Whether you’re using an Android, iPhone, or desktop, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll have full control over your Instagram activity, making it easier to enjoy the platform on your terms.

Also Read: What Is Quiet Mode on Instagram? How Does it Work [2025]

Is it Possible to Hide Online Status on Instagram?

Yes, it is possible to hide your online status on Instagram, and many users prefer to do this for added privacy or simply to avoid being disturbed when they don’t want to be active. Instagram allows you to control who can see when you’re online or active by hiding your “active status.” This means that while you can still use Instagram, others won’t be able to see when you’re browsing, messaging, or engaging with posts in real time.

Also Read: How to Hide Active Status on Instagram: Android, iPhone and Web (2025)

How to Hide Online Status on Instagram

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to hide your online status on Instagram for Android, iPhone, and Desktop. This will help you maintain your privacy while using the app, so let’s get started!

1. Android

Want to keep your Instagram activity private? Hiding your online status is quick and simple. Follow these easy steps:

1. Open the Instagram App:

Launch the Instagram app on your smartphone.

2. Go to Your Profile:

Tap on your profile icon at the bottom right corner of the screen.

3. Access Settings:

Click on the three-line menu at the top right.

4. Select Messages and Story Replies:

From the options, choose “Messages and Story Replies”.

5. Find Activity Status:

Tap on “Show Activity Status” under the settings menu.

6. Turn It Off:

Switch off the toggle to disable your online status.

2. iPhone

Looking to keep your Instagram activity under wraps? Here’s how to quickly hide your online status on an iPhone:

1. Open Instagram:

Launch the Instagram app on your device.

2. Go to Your Profile:

Tap your profile icon at the bottom-right corner of the screen.

3. Access More Options:

Select the three-dot menu (or hamburger icon) at the top-right corner.

4. Go to Privacy Settings:

Hit the Messages and Story Replies option from the menu.

5. Find Activity Status:

Tap on Show Activity Status.

6. Disable It:

Turn off the toggle to hide your online status.

Look for the “Activity Status” option and toggle it off. Once turned off, others won’t be able to see when you’re online, and you’ll also lose access to see others’ activity status.

3. Desktop

Want to keep your Instagram activity private while using the web? Follow these simple steps:

1. Log in to Instagram on Your Desktop:

Open Instagram in your web browser and log in to your account.

2. Select the “More” Option:

Click on the “More” menu located on the left-hand side.

3. Go to Settings:

From the menu, choose “Settings” to access your account preferences.

4. Find Privacy Options:

Tap on “Message and Story Replies” in the privacy section.

5. Locate Activity Status:

Click on “Show Activity Status” to manage your online visibility.

6. Turn It Off:

Toggle off the option to hide your online status.

Scroll down to the Activity Status section and uncheck the box that says “Show Activity Status”. Once you do this, your online status will be hidden from other users.

10 Effective Tips to Protect Privacy and Security on Instagram

Protecting your privacy and security on Instagram is more important than ever. With millions of users on the platform, it’s essential to take steps to safeguard your data and enjoy a secure social experience. Whether you’re sharing photos with friends, showcasing your business, or just browsing, these 10 effective tips will help you stay safe and maintain control over your Instagram account. Let’s dive into each tip and explain how you can apply them to protect your privacy.

1. Set Your Account to Private

One of the most straightforward ways to protect your privacy on Instagram is by setting your account to private. This ensures that only people you approve can follow you and see your posts. When your account is private, even if someone finds your profile, they won’t be able to see your content unless you accept their follow request. To do this, go to Settings > Privacy > Account Privacy and toggle the Private Account option. This is a great first step in taking control of who can view your content.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your account. With 2FA enabled, Instagram will require not only your password but also a code sent to your phone or email whenever someone tries to log in to your account. This way, even if someone manages to get your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the second verification step. To activate 2FA, go to Settings > Security > Two-Factor Authentication and follow the prompts to enable it.

3. Manage Story Privacy

Instagram Stories are a fun way to share moments with your followers, but not everyone you follow should have access to them. You can customize your story settings to restrict certain people from viewing your content. To manage your story privacy, go to Settings > Privacy > Story and select Hide Story From. You can choose specific people who won’t be able to view your stories, keeping your content more secure and targeted to your desired audience.

4. Review Tagged Photos

It’s important to review photos you’re tagged in to ensure that others aren’t sharing your image without your consent. Sometimes, people tag you in photos that may not align with your personal or professional image. You can review and approve tags before they appear on your profile. Go to Settings > Privacy > Tagged Photos, and enable the option to Manually Approve Tags. This way, you can approve or reject any tags before they appear on your account.

5. Limit Commenting

Controlling who can comment on your posts is a great way to avoid unwanted or harmful comments. Instagram allows you to limit commenting to your followers, people you follow, or even specific users. This can help prevent spam or bullying. To change your commenting settings, go to Settings > Privacy > Comments and select who you want to be able to comment on your posts. You can also block specific users from commenting if needed.

6. Disable Activity Status

The Activity Status feature shows when you were last active on Instagram, which can be a privacy concern for some users. If you want to keep your activity private, you can disable this feature. Once turned off, no one can see when you were last online. To disable this feature, go to Settings > Privacy > Activity Status, and toggle off the Show Activity Status option. This gives you more control over when and how you appear active on the platform.

7. Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps

Third-party apps can help you with various Instagram tasks, such as scheduling posts or tracking analytics, but they also risk your privacy and security. Some apps might ask for access to your account or personal data, so it’s important to be cautious. Always verify the legitimacy of any third-party app before granting access. You can manage connected apps by going to Settings > Security > Apps and Websites, where you can remove access to any apps you no longer trust or use.

8. Regularly Update Recovery Information

Keeping your account recovery information up to date is essential for account security. If you ever forget your password or someone tries to hack your account, having a valid email or phone number linked to your account will make the recovery process much easier. To update your recovery info, go to Settings > Security > Password, and make sure your email and phone number are correct and accessible.

9. Be Mindful of Sharing Personal Information

While Instagram is a social platform, you must be mindful of what you share publicly. Avoid posting personal details like your home address, phone number, or financial information. Even sharing your location can put your privacy at risk. Always think twice before sharing sensitive information, and consider how much of your personal life you want to expose. You can also control location tagging by turning off the location feature when posting.

10. Educate Yourself on Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are attempts to trick you into revealing your personal information or login credentials. These scams can come in the form of fake Instagram messages, emails, or websites that look legitimate. Always be wary of unsolicited messages that ask for your personal information. Instagram will never ask you to provide your password or sensitive information outside of the app. If you receive any suspicious messages, report them immediately, and do not click on any suspicious links.

By following these 10 tips, you can significantly improve your privacy and security on Instagram. Always remember to regularly review your privacy settings and stay informed about new security features Instagram may offer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hiding your online status on Instagram is a simple yet effective way to gain more control over your privacy and enjoy the app on your terms. Whether you want to browse without interruption or just take a break from the constant visibility, turning off your activity status can make your experience much more relaxing. As we’ve explored in this guide, the process is quick and easy on Android, iPhone, and desktop, giving you the flexibility to choose when and how you want to be seen.

By following these steps, you can use Instagram more privately while still engaging with your followers, posting content, and enjoying the platform. Don’t forget, your privacy is in your hands—take control today and enjoy a safer, more personal Instagram experience!